Vermont is seeking a federal disaster declaration following last week’s severe flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Beryl. The flooding resulted in extensive damage to homes, bridges, and roads, and tragically claimed two lives. Governor Phil Scott emphasized the importance of reporting damages to secure federal aid, stating that many affected communities will need assistance to recover. Damage assessments are being conducted across eight of Vermont’s fourteen counties, with an estimated $15 million in damage to public infrastructure. The state needs to verify at least $1.1 million in recovery costs to qualify for a major disaster declaration.

The hardest-hit communities include Barre, Hardwick, Lyndonville, Moretown, and Plainfield. A public assistance disaster declaration would provide 75% reimbursement to these communities for repair and response efforts. Additionally, an individual assistance declaration would offer financial aid to homeowners and renters for property losses. Governor Scott urged residents to report their losses through the Vermont 211 service to help demonstrate the need for federal resources.

Vermont has experienced significant damage from tropical storms before, notably in 2011 with Tropical Storm Irene. This history, coupled with the recent flooding, underscores the state's vulnerability to extreme weather events despite being inland. In response to the growing impact of climate change, Vermont recently passed a law requiring fossil fuel companies to contribute to the costs of damage caused by extreme weather, although officials recognize that obtaining these funds will likely require lengthy litigation.